Unlike its fellow F1 title contenders, McLaren does not enjoy works engine status.
Oscar Piastri has rejected the idea that McLaren is at a disadvantage compared to its F1 title rivals due to its engine status. McLaren’s MCL40 car will use a customer supply of Mercedes HPP power units as Piastri and Lando Norris aim for a third consecutive constructors’ championship in 2026. Despite the expectation that full works teams like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull will have an advantage with the new power units, McLaren, as the main customer team challenging for wins and titles, is not believed by Piastri to be negatively impacted by its customer status. Piastri emphasized the close relationship McLaren has with Mercedes HPP, stating the teething issues faced during testing were unrelated to not being a works team. He acknowledged a potential slight lag in integration but emphasized the importance of capitalizing on aero testing and organizational efficiency to stay competitive.
